Michael A. Guetlein

Michael Anthony Guetlein (born November 22, 1967) is a United States Space Force general who serves as the direct reporting program manager of the Office of Golden Dome for America. He recently served as the second vice chief of space operations from 2023 to 2025. He previously served as the deputy director of the National Reconnaissance Office from 2019 to 2021 and as the first commander of Space Systems Command from 2021 to 2023.

Guetlein was born and raised in Oklahoma. He joined the United States Air Force in 1991 after graduating from the Oklahoma State University. He is a career acquisitions officer who has worked in special operations, global power projection, missile warning and detection, and counterspace programs. He has commanded the Rapid Reaction Squadron at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, and the Space Force Element to the National Reconnaissance Office. He has also led Space and Missile Systems Center's Space-Based Infrared System Production Division and Remote Sensing Systems Directorate.

Guetlein transferred to the Space Force in 2021 while serving as NRO deputy director. In the same year, he became the inaugural commander of Space Systems Command. In 2023, he was nominated and confirmed for promotion to general and appointment as vice chief of space operations.

Early life and education Guetlein was born on November 22, 1967. He comes from a military family from Oklahoma. His father and grandfather both served in the United States Army, the latter serving during World War II.

Guetlein graduated with a B.S. degree in mechanical aerospace engineering in 1991 from Oklahoma State University. In 1995, he received an MBA from the Wright State University. He also received a Master's degree in organizational management from the George Washington University in 1999 and a Master's in national security and policy making from the Naval War College. He also went to the Air War College. In 2011, he was part of the Secretary of Defense Corporate Fellowship Program at SpaceX.

Military career Air Force Guetlein (right) accepts the Space Systems Command flag from Gen John W. Raymond (left) during the SSC activation ceremony, 2021 As early as he was three years old, Guetlein wanted to be in the United States Air Force.

Space Force In 2021, Guetlein transferred into the Space Force. He was nominated for promotion to lieutenant general and appointment as commander of Space Systems Command. In July 2023, Guetlein was nominated for promotion to general and appointment as vice chief of space operations. He was confirmed on December 19, 2023. On December 21, 2023, he was promoted to general and assumed the position of VCSO, becoming only the second person to do so. His nomination was sent to the Senate on June 16, 2025.

Personal life Guetlein is an outdoor enthusiast. He likes hiking, camping, the beach, and wine tasting. Air Force Distinguished Service Medal Defense Superior Service Medal Legion of Merit with one bronze oak leaf cluster Meritorious Service Medal with one bronze oak leaf cluster Air Force Commendation Medal with three bronze oak leaf clusters Air Force Achievement Medal with one bronze oak leaf cluster Air Force Organizational Excellence Award with one silver and two bronze oak leaf clusters National Defense Service Medal with one bronze service star Global War on Terrorism Service Medal Armed Forces Service Medal Air Force Longevity Service Award with one silver oak leaf cluster Air Force Training Ribbon NATO Medal (Yugoslavia)

Dates of promotion

+ Rank Branch Date Second Lieutenant Air Force May 11, 1991 First Lieutenant July 20, 1993 Captain July 20, 1995 Major June 1, 2002 Lieutenant Colonel March 1, 2006 Colonel October 1, 2010 Brigadier General July 22, 2016 Major General September 24, 2019 Major General Space Force ~April 29, 2021 Lieutenant General August 13, 2021 General December 21, 2023

Writings